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Design Inspiration

The Fall Edit: Our Team’s Furniture Picks of the Season

The Fall Edit: Our Team’s Furniture Picks of the Season

As fall settles in, it's the perfect time to bring in the cosy fall vibes and make your home feel as warm and inviting as a retreat. Here, we’re sharing our team’s Fall Edit, to help you do just that. Sometimes a small change can create a totally different vibe in a room. Whether that means incorporating a new sofa, rug, or lighting, you don’t necessarily need a full makeover to create a summer-to-fall room transformation. Take a look at our team’s Fall Edit below to start your transformation.

Les Nelmes - Sales Manager
Top Pick: Gisella Sofa by Marcantonio Designs

“Modern style meets sheer comfort in our welcoming Gisella Sofa by Marc Antonio Designs. Sculpted silhouette feature low, rounded profiles while covered in a gorgeous bouclé, type fabric, the Gisella will add warmth and luxury to any living space.”


View the Gisella Sofa here

Noreen Wiwcharyk - Design Consultant
Top Pick: Trianon Bench by Bernhardt Furniture

“Such a versatile piece. Striking design. Hand-scraped look in a dark L’Ombre finish. At the end of a bed, in a hallway, at the dining table. This bench goes anywhere. You will love it.”


Take a closer look at the Trianon Bench here.

Patty Isada - Design Consultant
Top Pick: Form Buffet by Vanguard

“I love the curved corners & statement hardware. The detail adds interest to this timeless piece.”


Check out the Form Buffet here

Andrew Smayda - Design Consultant
Top Pick: Delray Chair by Interlude Home

“This dining chair is definitely a showroom favorite with clients in the store. The beautiful wood tones/ White Ceruse and flax weave have a beachy feel that is very west coast.”


Browse the Delray Chair here.

Take a closer look at all of the above by visiting our showroom at 292 West 3rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC. And if you're seeking expert guidance for your next interior design project, don’t hesitate to book a private consultation with our talented team.

 

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Once a Tree x AVIVA:
Designing Elegant Townhomes in Langley, BC

Once a Tree x AVIVA: <BR>Designing Elegant Townhomes in Langley, BC

Nestled in the heart of Langley, BC, AVIVA is a new collection of townhomes taking shape along 81 A Avenue, perfectly built for new home-owners seeking contemporary living, with tons of green space and great amenities. 

We had the pleasure of working with the AVIVA team to showcase the full design potential of these beautiful townhomes. Scroll down for a closer look at how we styled these homes, including photos of our favorite features and pieces …  and don’t be surprised if you’re inspired to take a trip out to Langley to get an even closer look! 

Our Vision? Lush Family Lifestyle

Partnering with the talented AVIVA team, our goal was to infuse each room with style, function, and ease. Because these 2, 3 and 4 bedroom family townhomes offer a combination of park-side living with modern amenities, each space needed to balance form and function. Let’s start with the heart of every home: the kitchen. 

A Modern Family Kitchen Masterpiece

The AVIVA kitchens are beautiful, with simple, elegant cabinets, tasteful fixtures, and classic tiles. It’s easy to imagine yourself living in this space- making a morning coffee or whipping up an after-school snack.

To accentuate the kitchen, we chose to go with classic yet modern pieces like this beautiful Phase modern round dining table in solid walnut and walnut veneer, and these incredibly stylish yet stain proof mid century-inspired leather bar stools, seen below. 

Creating Cozy Corners: The Bedroom and Beyond

We extended designer touches throughout, by creating intimate living spaces with warmth and character. From a charming office nook to a serene reading corner, each space was thoughtfully designed for that magical combination of comfort and style. Take a look at the cozy workspace and reading nook below, featuring our Jules Desk, and the Evita Chair (available to order) with the Doris mirror. And finally, enter the spacious bedrooms featuring the Laurent bedframe, available in several fabric colour options.

Every room is a Living Room

With tons of natural light, great views, and high ceilings, the AVIVA living spaces were a beautiful canvas for living room dreams. Below, is a candid shot we took, which features the leather swivel chairs, this stunning round pine coffee table, and the Stiles Rug by Loloi.

Building a Community

To us, great design is so much more than styling a space. We love getting to work and collaborate with a vibrant network of space makers who are bringing communities to life in more ways than one. Thanks for the great experience  AVIVA and the team at Zail Properties. We’re excited to see the final build of these stunning townhomes in December 2025.

Looking for a design partner?

We love collaborating on projects like this. If you have a similar commercial or residential project and are looking for design and decor support, we would love to help. Book a consultation with our team here

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Behind the Canvas: A Q&A with Artist Krista Johnson

Behind the Canvas: A Q&A with Artist Krista Johnson

What gives your interior design personality, depth, and emotion? For Krista Johnson, it’s art. Good interior design focuses on functionality - but to set the tone, create focal points and harmonize the overall design, you need artwork. Krista's paintings explore the dynamic interplay of color and light in the natural world, with a special emphasis on florals and landscapes. We’re proud to feature her work in our showroom! 

In this Q&A, we sit down with Krista to discuss the inspiration behind her artistic journey, her unique style, and the exciting projects she's currently working on. Read on to learn more!

Once A Tree:  What initially sparked your interest in art, and how did you get started as an artist?

Krista: I have always felt most comfortable and alive when creating art and being surrounded by it. Making things has always been my way of navigating and processing the world. As a child, I explored with a wide variety of materials. In university at ECUAD, I studied in the communication design program, which eventually led me to illustration and then back to pursuing painting as a full-time career.  

Once A Tree: Can you describe your artistic style and how it has evolved over time?

Krista: For many years, I painted very casually, experimenting with different styles, colour palettes, and subject matter. Through daily practice and years of "just showing up," my brush marks became more distinct and recognizable. This is still a constant evolution. With each painting, I learn something new that I bring to the next one, which keeps the process exciting. My brush marks have become more loose, expressive and personal over time, while still exploring some of the same subjects I have always been drawn to - florals and landscapes.

Photographed by Brit Kwasney

Once A Tree: Can you share a memorable experience or turning point in your career as an artist?

Krista: A turning point in my career was participating in IDS West in Vancouver in 2015. It was the first time I showcased my work in a public venue and had the opportunity to discuss it with others. During this event, I connected with Once A Tree Furniture and met Madeleine from Madeleine Design Group. Their support has been essential to my career and has continued for nearly 10 years.

Once A Tree: How would you describe the connection between interior design and art?

Krista: I think art is a fundamental element in interior design as it enhances the visual appeal and evokes emotional depth within a space. The presence of art in interior design can make spaces feel more inviting, inspiring, and comforting. While interior design focuses on the functionality of a space—ensuring that it meets practical needs and enhances daily living—art introduces an element of beauty and inspiration. I love seeing how my paintings are incorporated into spaces and how they resonate with the clients who choose them.

Photographed by: Brit Kwasney

Once A Tree: Are you currently working on any exciting projects or collaborations?

Krista: I am just wrapping up a show at the Ian Tan Gallery in Vancouver. In the studio, I have a couple of commissions on the go. Heading into summer I usually take the time to work directly from life, from flowers and landscapes, and collect inspiration. This July I will be teaching a flower painting workshop on Vancouver Island.

Visit our showroom at 292 West 3rd Avenue in Vancouver, BC to see more of Krista's beautiful work. And if you're an artist who would like to be featured in our showroom, please reach out to marketing@onceatreefurniture.com to learn more.

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Q&A with Abstract Artist, Amy Stewart.

Q&A with Abstract Artist, Amy Stewart.

Abstract Artist, Amy Stewart Photo Credit: Brit Kwasney


Exceptional artwork serves as the ultimate centerpiece, completing the energy of a space, which is why we’re excited to introduce Amy Stewart - a Vancouver-based artist whose work we are honoured to display here in our showroom at Once a Tree. 

Amy’s pieces are often inspired by the feelings that come both from the natural world and from engaging fully in her community and with her loved ones. She’s known for abstract art that transforms everyday moments into expressions of joy.

In this Q&A, we’re chatting with Amy about what led her to focus on abstract art, her creative process, and what projects she’s currently working on. Enjoy.

Once A Tree: Can you tell us about your background in art and what led you to focus on abstract art?

Amy: My background is in Child and Youth Care and Victim Services, a career that came with incredible stress. When I first started creating art, it was all about the process rather than the product, with painting offering an avenue to calm and balance in my life. That’s why abstract art was so appealing—it allowed me to focus on the feeling of moving paint around a canvas. But over the years and especially after turning to art full-time, I’ve developed my own style, shifting across series to develop abstract expressions of ideas and experiences that are important to me. These explorations and the development of my style have brought me profound peace and happiness.  

Once A Tree: How do you begin a new piece? What inspires your creative process?

Amy: I find the world a busy place. When I am in the urban environment, my eye is drawn to architecture, the curve of a building, the colour of something. Simple things take me away from the busyness of the city and bring me a sense of calm. Outside the city, natural shapes inspire me, especially our local mountains, ocean, and lakes. Of course, travel influences my work as well. Sometimes I look at a canvas and know exactly what I am going to do, and sometimes I’m inspired by my memories, sketching out a piece before applying paint.

Amy in studio. Photo Credit: Brit Kwasney

Once A Tree: How does it feel to see your pieces on display in people's homes?

Amy: I have the best collectors. I am so grateful for all of them, and the designers I work with, too. It’s important to me that people connect with my work, though it’s a bit surreal at the same time.

Amy’s art on display in the Once A Tree Showroom

Once A Tree: How does your abstract art style complement different interior design aesthetics?

Amy: My collectors have homes with a really diverse range of styles. I’m always surprised by how my paintings fit with each different home’s design. I think because my pieces draw on the specificity of the urban and natural shapes outside our doors, while also suggesting private associations for each viewer, my work interacts flexibly with the personal expressions in the space around it.

Photo Credit: Brit Kwasney

Once A Tree: Are you currently working on any exciting projects or collaborations? 

Amy: I just finished a large project that included commissioned paintings, licensed images, and mural designs for Tesoro with Concert Properties. At the moment I am busy working with art advisors and designers in the US and Canada, creating commissions for their clients.

Thanks, Amy. If you’re an artist and would love to be featured in our showroom, please reach out to marketing@onceatreefurniture.com. We’d love to take a look at your work and see how that can fit our clients’ design visions! 

 

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Five Beautiful New Items to Elevate Your Home

Five Beautiful New Items to Elevate Your Home

Spring is the perfect time for a seasonal refresh, and our latest furniture collection offers some stunning pieces that are perfect for a style update of any kind. Below are five of our team’s favorite pieces from our latest collection. From minimalist coffee tables to designer swivel chairs, this collection is both incredibly fresh and beautifully timeless. Read on…

Moretti Sectional - Bernhardt Furniture Company

 

With sinuous spring construction and luxe feather-down cushion, the Moretti Sectional is available in a number of fabrics and customizable to your liking.

Laurent Bed - Huppe

 

Enjoy Canadian craftsmanship with the locally-made Laurent Bed, boasting 15 exquisite wood finishes to complement any bedroom aesthetic

Aline Swivel Chair - Bernhardt Furniture Company

Modernized with sleeker lines, curved arms and luxurious seating, the Aline Swivel Chair adds a sense of design and comfort to any living space. 

Leo Coffee Table - Four Hands

This rustic-finished oak coffee table adds glamour and sophistication to any living space.

Marsh Bedside Chest - Interlude Home

We love the neutral tones of this rattan-finished nightstand. It adds a calming touch to any bedroom space. 

For a closer look at the spring collection, visit our showroom: 292 West 3rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC. And if you’re looking for personal guidance with your interior design project, you can book a private consultation with a customer service representative on our team. Our made-in-Vancouver STUDIO Collection offers custom furniture solutions for all your home and living needs.

 

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Q&A WITH INTERIOR DESIGNER
Ami McKay of PURE Design Inc.

Q&A WITH INTERIOR DESIGNER <br>Ami McKay of PURE Design Inc.

Ami McKay of PURE Design Inc. Photo by: Janis Nicolay

At our core, we believe that the recipe for great interiors includes a blend of creativity, functionality, and the designer’s unique personality. That's why we love working hand-in-hand with brilliant interior designers like Ami McKay of PURE Design Inc. For over two decades, we’ve been working with Ami and her team to bring interior design dreams to life. Ami’s unique perspective and innovative vision literally transform her clients’ spaces into personalized sanctuaries. 

In this Q&A, we’re chatting with Ami about how she got her start in the interior design industry, her unique process, and the design trends she says everyone should watch out for this year. Read on.

OAT: Tell us what inspired you to become an interior designer. 

Ami: Growing up outside of Niagara Falls, Ontario, my entrepreneurial spirit was ignited early on. As a child, I was always crafting and selling goods. The designer in me was also emerging at a young age as I was always eagerly decorating any space and on more than one occasion rearranging the furniture in my parent’s house and in the houses where I babysat when they were out! Having moved West I studied and worked in theatre design, both set and costume, as well floral design. All of these experiences were formative in my journey to where I am today, exercising my full creative potential, blending form, scale, colour, shape and texture to create beautiful spaces through interior design.

OAT: How would you describe your design style and process?

Ami: Our range of design styles is substantial; from Wabi-Sabi, natural and organic, to European vintage, traditional, and warm contemporary. We offer full service from initial inspiration to designing the perfect floor plan, choosing fixtures and finishes, to the meaty middle - the construction and project management phase. Finally, at the end of the process, we help the client choose furniture, textiles, art and style it all!

At PURE Design we partner closely with our clients, collaborating with them through every step to create a spectacular home that is everything they imagined. The joy for me is presenting my clients, who often become friends, with their new magazine-worthy home.

Next Chapter Residences (featuring furniture from Once A Tree) - photography by Janis Nicolay

OAT: What’s your ideal design project?

Ami: My favourite projects are often about the clients, and the trust between us as we craft their new space. I also love working on interesting structures thriving on design challenges that push boundaries. As well, an exquisite country farmhouse, or client’s vacation homes throughout the Howe sound and Sunshine Coast where we use hand made and natural materials with added warmth and character are some of my favorite projects

OAT: What’s your secret to balancing functionality and aesthetics?

Ami: For me, functionality precedes aesthetics. To start we meticulously reconfigure layouts to create floor plans that are best for our clients’ needs. We take on big space planning objectives, and often will reverse the existing floor plans, for example, relocating the bedrooms or the kitchen and living area downstairs. I love the nuts and bolts of space planning, and delivering solutions for how our clients want to live. We then get to the fun and creative part, curating beautiful tiles, floors, finishes, lighting as well as furniture, and all of the satisfying styling bits, including art, area rugs, and textiles. 

Photography by Janis Nicolay

OAT: What are the emerging design trends to watch for this year?

Ami: Organic, hand-made imperfect tiles with beautiful finishes are in this year. Arches and curves as well as applying lime wash or clay plaster finishes is adding another layer of warmth to projects this year. Vintage pieces or client treasures mixed with new heirloom quality furniture (such as you would find at Once A Tree) are definitely in too.)

Westport Residences (featuring furniture from Once A Tree) - photography by Janis Nicolay

OAT: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become an interior designer?

Ami: Design school will provide you with the building blocks. I’d also recommend reaching out to people in the industry, to see if they would have a chat or Zoom to share their wisdom. Always find a mentor and offer to volunteer in areas where you would love to work, as that is where you will learn so much, and make the invaluable connections needed to be successful in this industry. If you love what you do, you will always succeed…

A great note to end on. Thanks to Ami for taking the time to chat with us! 

If you’re a designer and you’re looking to collaborate with us on an upcoming project this year, please reach out to marketing@onceatreefurniture.com. We’d love to work together to create the perfect custom furniture pieces to suit your project and the client’s vision! 

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Crafting Comfort: Shop the Newest Collections from
West Bros Furniture

Crafting Comfort: Shop the Newest Collections from <br>West Bros Furniture

Step into the realm of timeless elegance with West Bros Furniture's exquisite solid wood creations. For the past 20 years, they’ve been crafting unparalleled pieces right here in North America, and we’re so thrilled to have some of their best-selling collections on display in our showroom. 

From rustic vibes that feel like a cabin in the woods to city-chic designs inspired by the skyline, there's something for every taste. Scroll down for some of the most popular West Bros collections this season, and for a sneak peek at the much-anticipated Corsa Collection!

BRAND NEW Corsa Bedroom Collection

This new line is made from white oak and features soft close drawers, coin trays and joinery details. Standard finishes are available in Weathered Oak and Noir Oak, as well as any other available finish. Stay tuned - this modern and luxe collection will be hitting our showroom floors in the next few weeks!

Browse the pieces:
Corsa Night Table
Corsa Chest of Drawers
Corsa Panel Headboard Bed
Corsa 6 Drawer Dresser

 

Strada Bedroom Collection

Timeless and modern, with a variety of oak wood tones - this collection is where comfort meets style.  

Browse the pieces:
Strada 6 Drawer Dresser
Strada Bedside Chest
Strada Upholstered Panel Bed

 

Fulton Dining Collection

A popular choice for our clientele: this collection is handcrafted from solid white oak and available in two standard finishes, Sand and Pewter. Rustic and stylish - that’s how we’d describe this exquisite collection. 

Browse the pieces:
Fulton Dining Table
Fulton Sideboard

 

Hayden Bedroom Collection

Inspired by “American Shaker furniture” - this contemporary collection is crafted in solid White Oak and includes the option to add “ribbon stripped” panels to create an aesthetic two-tone effect.

Browse the pieces:
Hayden Poster Bed
Hayden Master Dresser
Hayden Bedside Chest

 

Phase Bedroom Collection

Inspired by classic modernist architecture, this collection features a mix of solid walnut pieces to create an inviting and warm bedroom space.  

Browse the pieces:
Phase Nightstand
Phase Dresser
Phase Bed


Come explore the artistry and sophistication firsthand of the collections from West Bros Furniture in our showroom this season, or set up a private appointment with one of our design experts. We can’t wait to see you! 

 

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Deck the Halls: A Holiday Collaboration between
AK Design & Once A Tree

Deck the Halls: A Holiday Collaboration between <br>AK Design & Once A Tree

When you step into our store this season, you’ll quite literally be immersed in our holiday-inspired furniture setup, designed in collaboration with the team from AK Design

Our special holiday display is a combination of "Classic English Yuletide" meets "Charlie Brown Christmas”. 

Every piece in this immersive display tells a story of comfort, elegance, and the spirit of Christmas - and you might just recognize this festive display from Vancouver’s quintessential holiday event: Homes For The Holidays.

We had a blast working with the AK Design team, to create a variety of luxe pieces that celebrate this season in high style. Scroll down for a sneak peek, and come visit us in person for a closer look. 

Our built to order Paddy K Dining Table paired with Mila Dining Chairs and Accent Cidra Chair

 

Billie Sofa

 

Our built to order Olive Coffee Table

 

Customized Caine Cocktail Ottoman

If you have any questions about any of these pieces you can connect to set up a personal appointment in store, or simply pop by our showroom. 

 

Happy holidays!

 

 

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Our Team's Top Picks For The Season

The holiday season is in the air and our team is in love with this season’s additions to our luxury furniture collections. 

Our newest collections include everything from wooden dining tables to ultra-comfy sectionals to stylish cocktail tables. Every piece has the potential to transform your space into a haven of modern sophistication. 

Scroll down to discover our team's favorite pieces from this season! 

Andrew Smayda, Design Consultant

Top Pick: Ryan Sectional

My pick is the Ryan sectional…The look and comfort of this deep seating is perfect for a media room or a Whistler Chalet with a roaring fireplace and hot toddy.

The price point makes it a best seller!

Les Nelmes, Sales Manager

Top Pick: Logan Sectional by Marc Antonio Designs

I love the NEW Logan Sectional. I find it super welcoming with its generously rounded edges, elegant curves, and soft neutral palette. To top it off, it’s Canadian-made and available in hundreds of fabrics and leathers.

Patty Isada, Design Consultant

Top Pick: Martina Table from Once A Tree Studio Collection

Love the oval shape & detailing of our new Martina table. The reverse bevelled edge and fluting details are right on point.

Noreen Wiwcharyk, Design Consultant

Top Pick: Andrew Table from Once A Tree Studio Collection

The new Andrew dining table is a winner. So easy to gather a large group around. The curve of the double pedestal base and the dark finish are stunning. Plus you can order it in your preferred size.

Tracey Mills, Visual Merchandiser

Top Pick: Theo Sectional 

Bold. Dramatic. Distinctive - that’s how I would describe Theo. I love that it’s made in Canada and is available in a vast array of rich textures and classic weaves, like Casablanca (as shown). 

Head over to our website and explore our fabulous collection, or take a closer look with a visit to our showroom: 292 West 3rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC! You can also book a private appointment with a member of our team. Hope to see you soon! 

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REFINED ELEGANCE: INTRODUCING THE FORM COLLECTION
BY VANGUARD FURNITURE

Photo via Vanguard Furniture

Introducing Form by Vanguard Furniture, a collection of incredibly sophisticated dining tables, modern arm chairs, and elegant buffets, now available in our showroom.

What you’ll love about this collection? Vanguard is known for designing furniture that feels fluid and organic, with curved landscapes of shape layered with authentic wood grains. This collection is the definition of refined elegance. Each and every item in this Vanguard collection is a work of art featuring oak veneers, honed marble, woven Lampakanay, wire brushed ash solids, and metal accents.

The use of the curves in this collection gives it a calming, organic feel. Vanguard is a  simple line, that has the ability to connect us to the outdoors.”- Les Nelmes, Sales Manager, Once A  Tree Furniture

Here are a few of the beautiful pieces from this collection, currently available in our showroom:

Form Buffet With Wood Doors

Form Dining Table

Form Console

Each of these pieces is available in a variety of organic finishes, to bring a harmonious and balanced feeling into your living space. As one of the exclusive carriers of Vanguard Furniture in Vancouver, consider this your official invitation to explore the Vanguard collection up close. Visit our showroom located at 292 West 3rd Avenue, or book an appointment for a private consultation with our team.

You can also connect with us:

Instagram @onceatreefurniture 

Pinterest @OnceATree 

Sign up to our e-newsletter

 

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